UK bans chemical in nail products over reproductive health concerns

A new ban on a chemical used in some gel nail products has come into force in the United Kingdom, raising questions about the safety of products used in nail salons and the potential implications for consumers and beauty businesses in Kenya.

The UK began phasing out products containing Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) on August 15, 2026, following concerns over its potential reproductive health effects.

TPO is commonly used in gel nail polish to help the product harden when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) or LED curing lamps.

Under the new UK rules, manufacturers and importers can no longer place TPO-containing cosmetic products on the market. Nail salons can, however, continue using existing stock until February 14, 2027, when all products containing the chemical must be removed from salons.

The move follows a similar ban by the European Union, which classified TPO as a substance of concern because of its potential reproductive toxicity.

While the restrictions are currently focused on the UK and EU markets, the development could be relevant to Kenya's growing beauty and nail-care industry, particularly salons and distributors that import gel polishes and other professional nail products from overseas.

Kenyan consumers who regularly get gel manicures may want to check the ingredients of products being used on them, especially where products are imported from markets that have introduced restrictions on TPO.

Experts quoted in the UK said the classification is based on the chemical's hazardous properties and potential risks under high levels of exposure. The concerns do not mean that every person exposed to a TPO-containing product will experience reproductive health problems.

Manufacturers have also been developing alternatives to TPO, including TPO-L and BAPO, which can provide similar curing times and the glossy finish associated with gel manicures.

For Kenyan salons, the development could eventually mean greater demand for TPO-free gel products as international manufacturers adjust their formulations and global cosmetic regulations continue to tighten.

Consumers using UV or LED nail lamps can also take precautions by applying sunscreen to their hands before treatment to reduce exposure to ultraviolet light.

The UK ban does not currently amount to a ban on gel manicures themselves. Instead, it targets products containing the specific chemical TPO.